Overview & Reviews

Like many of the two dozen or so compact crossovers on the market today, the Nissan Rogue seeks to provide the all-weather capability and commanding driving position of an SUV, along with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a typical car. It does this quite well, and it also adds bold, son-of-Murano styling to make it desirable for its form as well as its function.

Although the Nissan Rogue has never delivered an especially inspiring engine and transmission combination, performance has always been passable, and the current generation is notable for its stellar fuel economy. The second-generation Rogue also has a spacious interior with a large cargo hold and, rare for this class, an available third row of seating. Earlier Nissan Rogues weren't as roomy, but they were more nimble to drive through turns. Overall, we think a new or used Rogue presents a compelling overall package that merits consideration alongside traditional segment leaders.

Current Nissan Rogue
Completely redesigned for 2014, the current Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV with seating for five or seven, depending on how it's equipped. Compared with the previous Rogue, it offers a much larger backseat, significantly more cargo capacity, higher fuel economy ratings and a longer list of safety features.

All Nissan Rogues are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard, and buyers have a choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. With either drivetrain, fuel economy ratings are above average for this class.

The Rogue is available in three trim levels: S, SV and SL. Standard equipment on the base S includes 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity and a four-speaker sound system. The SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, smartphone integration features and a six-speaker sound system. The SL comes with all that plus 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, voice controls, a 360-degree parking camera system, a navigation system (with a 7-inch touchscreen) and a nine-speaker sound system.

Key options include a two-passenger third-row seat (S and SV models only), a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof. Optional safety equipment includes a blind-spot warning system, a lane-departure warning system, a forward collision warning system and "moving object detection" (which works in conjunction with the multi-view parking cameras).

One thing we always liked about the original Nissan Rogue that has carried over to the second generation is the smooth ride quality. Neither the steering nor the handling is particularly sporty, but most buyers will appreciate the Rogue's relaxed demeanor. In reviews, we've found the Nissan's 2.5-liter engine adequate to the task of commuting. During harder acceleration, there's a noticeable growl from the engine as the CVT maintains a constant high engine rpm to provide the motivation needed for passing and merging. This makes for a noisier cabin environment than in some competitors.

Otherwise, the Rogue's cabin is a pretty nice place to be. Materials quality is high, and everything is put together with care. Nissan's available infotainment interface is quite easy to use as well. Seat comfort is excellent in the first two rows, and thanks to 9 inches of fore/aft adjustment, the 40/20/40 second-row seat is adult-friendly. The available third-row bench is a kids-only proposition, but the fact that Nissan offers one at all gives the Rogue a leg up on its rivals from Ford, Honda and Toyota.

Used Nissan Rogue Models
The first-generation Rogue debuted for the 2008 model year and was produced through 2013. After 2013, this Rogue continued on as the Nissan Rogue Select (reviewed separately), which is identical save for its abbreviated options list.

The original Nissan Rogue used the same 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the current model. All versions were offered in both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive configurations, and a CVT was standard.

First-generation Nissan Rogues were available in two trim levels: S and SV (known as the SL from 2008-'10). You got the basics with the S, including keyless entry, air-conditioning and full power accessories, along with an iPod interface. However, things like privacy glass, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and satellite radio were available either within an option package or on the SV. Higher-end items like heated leather seats, a navigation system and a Bose sound system were available as options on the SV as well.

Like the current crossover, the first-generation Rogue offered a smooth, comfortable ride. Handling was actually a bit sportier than on the current version, while acceleration was fairly quick for a small four-cylinder crossover. However, engine noise was a persistent annoyance during passing maneuvers, as the CVT kept engine revs high to maximize the available power.

Styling is a subjective matter, of course, but to our eyes, the first-gen Rogue cut a rather dashing profile compared to its compact crossover brethren. Rear visibility consequently suffered, as did cargo capacity and rear-seat accommodations. Although this Rogue represents a good value as a used vehicle, shoppers needing room for child safety seats or a large dog will likely find it short on space.

Changes to the Nissan Rogue were minimal during this generation. It received minor styling updates for 2011, and trim levels and option packages were reshuffled over the years. For 2010-'11, the Rogue was offered in a Krom Edition model, which added larger wheels and cosmetic enhancements, including centrally located exhaust outlets.

User Reviews:

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  Dont be deceived... - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By cheermom3 - August 29 - 10:16 am

  I drove my Rogue for two years until I just couldnt take it another day. The "drone" is annoying, every fast excelled action and hill you climb you wont hear the radio. The "premium" package features stink! Visibility is tough with huge blind spots for highway driving and backing up. The Bluetooth lags so much that I was always talking over the person so I ended up still holding my phone while driving. The GPS setup was worse than the Tom Tom I had for 5+ years, it didnt recognize streets that have been around forever and does not give street names in 2012! The interior cabin has little to no room, road trips are very uncomfortable. Clear coat does not stand up to bird drops.

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  Good Small SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Joe - August 29 - 12:40 am

  Traded in 04 Murano as it approached 100k miles. This has been an excellent alternative. After driving for a full year, gas mileage is consistent at 23 everyday with closer to 28 on highway. CVT transmission can slow your start but overall is very good. Cargo space adequate for this sized vehicle.

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  Rogue all the way!!!!! - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By BM - August 26 - 1:28 am

  Purchased the SV AWD model and despite what some reviewers say, its the best car I ever owned. I also leased a Toyota Rav-4 the same time I purchased the Nissan Rogue and the Rogue is so much better. Its larger, more comfortable, and overall a better handling car than the Toyota. Its a 4 cylinder vehicle that rides as good as a V6

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  Solid value, great handling - 2010 Nissan Rogue
  By Kate - August 16 - 8:50 am

  Like others have said, this AWD is a best buy in its class. I was looking for a fuel efficient AWD to handle the New England winters, although I cant vouch for how it performs in the snow yet. What impressed me most about this vehicle was the car-like feel when I first drove it (other competitors felt more like "mini-trucks") Coming off a V-6 minivan, it was important to me that the Rogue had a nice ride and it doesnt disappoint here even though the smaller engine is taking some getting used to.(acceleration is adequate however) The interior finish is nice for a car in this class (Premium Pkg., Leather, Moonroof) and so far Im averaging 21-22 mpg, mostly around town driving.

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  Great subcompact crossover - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By Dennis - August 15 - 12:43 pm

  The four-cylinder acceleration with the CVT transmission is something to get used to me myself I dont hear any drone in the transmission as some people report fun to Drive. And the optional all-wheel drive on and off button is great that way you dont have to drive in all wheel drive all the time

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  Mini-Murano - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By ESQMEDIC - August 2 - 4:43 am

  I bought this car for my wife. I never thought she would accept a Nissan from previous experiences, however she loves it! Nissan has come along way. We were going to buy a Murano instead we got the mini lol. She loves all the bells and whistles this model comes with including the heated leather seats. My two year old daughter loves it as well, when we picked her up with it she replied wowwww!

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  I Love it! - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By Esther - July 18 - 1:40 am

  I Bought a Versa 6 months ago and found that was too small because I have 3 kids and 2 of them need car seats. I looked trying to find a car seat narrow but I couldnt find it so I decided to change the Versa for a Rogue and we love it! I have more space for the kids and I feel secure.

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  Who Knew?? - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By CJS - July 7 - 2:36 am

  I looked at the CRV, Mazda Cx6, Rav4, Saturn Vue and by chance stopped at a Nissan dealer and discovered the Rogue. The car won hands down, much nicer interior, the ride is great and it has plenty of power. Highway mileage 31.5 at 60-65, combined about 21-22mpg. The bluetooth is best Ive seen and to my surprise, the keyless entry is great. The steering is great without being bothered by the road imperfections. There is adequate room in the hatch, seats are comfortable and the fit and finish is excellent. Wish it had a telescoping steering wheel, nav system and a little better rear visibility (back up sensors and cam would be nice). No need for the adjustable headlights.

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  BAD TRANSMISSIONS - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By jerrius - July 6 - 6:36 am

  If you drive this car long enough, you might run into a transmission problem. Not only has this affected my car, but many other rogues. Hence, the extended transmission warranty Nissan has given for this car. Right now, my car is in the shop with 128,000 miles, needing a completely new transmission. I would highly recommend thinking of other makes or models (especially one that doesnt have the same type of transmission.)

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  Nissan delivers with the 2011 Rogue - 2011 Nissan Rogue
  By metalskeleton - July 5 - 12:55 am

  I have the SL package (nav, leather, roof rails, fog lights, etc.). I bought my Rogue used about 8 months ago with fairly high freeway miles. I absolutely love this car! Acceleration is much better than I expected for a 4 cylinder and it has no problem powering up hills. The steering is remarkably agile and responsive for a small SUV and really is confidence-inspiring. Interior is sharp, clean and VERY comfortable. At this price point, you shouldnt expect a car to be silent, smooth, and a sharp steerer, but the Rogue balances these tasks impressively. CVT is somewhat noisy, but who cares?! Crank some tunes and enjoy the ride. I have nearly 80K miles now, and it still drives wonderfully!